Spirovski said she was motivated to paint members of the community because of her migrant background.

“As someone who migrated to Australia from the Philippines, it felt natural to explore the City’s multicultural identities,” Ms Spirovski said. “Humans are always drawn to others who are like them and I wanted, more than anything, to create work that was true to myself and to the incredibly diverse people of Fairfield City.

“Solo exhibitions are always nerve-racking, because you inevitably feel as though you are baring your soul to the judgement of others, but this exhibition feels a little different as a result of the community's involvement and loving support.

“I hope the community feels a shared sense of pride in its completion.”

Ms Spirovski will also lead two all ages and abilities workshops at Fairfield City Museum & Gallery, with materials included in the booking fee.

A still-life painting workshop ($25 per person) will be held on 14 October, 10am-1pm, immersing participants into the colourful world of acrylic painting.

On 18 November, 1pm-4pm, a portrait workshop ($20 per person) will allow participants to recreate the likeness of someone dear to them through various drawing techniques.

Mayor Carbone said Council was incredibly proud of Ms Spirovski’s achievements as Artist in Residence, not only because of her upcoming solo exhibition Diaspora, but also because of the recent announcement that her portrait of John Bell was a finalist in the prestigious Archibald Prize.

“I look forward to Loribelle’s exhibition and in future seeing her colourful portraits appear in galleries around the world,” Mayor Carbone said.

Applications for the 2017 Artist in Residence program closed in July and Fairfield City Museum & Gallery plans to announce the selected artist in late September.